Men and mental health

A couple of nights ago I went to a talk about men and mental health in church. It was more like a lecture. Actually, is a talk a lecture?

Does it matter?

There was a lot of talk. It was informative.

I guess the main emphasis was that men should try to be better at hearing, listening and supporting each other through mental health struggles. Of course, this applies to all men whether they have a religious faith or not.

I’ll say this: I know a few guys who are happy to talk frankly about their mental health and have also checked in with me over the last few years. There’s a few on social media and only a couple are “church people.” And here’s the thing, I’m not really in a place anymore where I am surprised or bothered by the silence of literally dozens of “church men” especially “leaders” that know me, have known me for a long time and, have read my social media posts about my struggles… or in a couple of instances, changed the subject when I’ve mentioned counselling.

I get it. It’s awkward. You’ve got your own problems. We all have our own people.

I think what matters and what is about as much as any of us can expect is, the support and friendship of a few good people.

I suppose this is what the guy the other night was trying to encourage.

Churches are weird places though right? There’s a lot of talk. Sometimes it’s informative. And we’ve come full circle.

I think maybe take this with a pinch of salt. Here in Northern Ireland we all grew up surrounded by religious nutbags so… we probably all need some therapy around those issues!

Anyway, look out for those around you, whether it’s in a church, pub, run club or on the street where you live.

*Adapted from this Instagram post

PS: I am running 60k in May to raise money for Action Mental Health, if you’d like to send a few pounds for a great cause click here.